Best book for quantum foundations

In summary, the conversation discusses the request for a book on the foundations of quantum mechanics, with the mention of "Do We Really Understand Quantum Mechanics" by Franck Laloë being too chatty and long. The conversation also includes suggestions for other books on quantum foundations and the role of interpretation and philosophy in understanding the meaning of quantum equations. The conversation ends with a mention of "Foundations of Quantum Mechanics" by Travis Norsen as a potential recommendation.
  • #1
58
4
I'm looking for a book on foundation of quantum mechanics. I started reading the book "do we really understand quantum mechanics" of franck laloë , and it seems to be very chatty and long. Do you have any recommendations?
Thank you
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
What do you mean by „foundations of Quantum Mechanics”? What do you expect to find there, many more words than mathematics?
 
  • Like
Likes Demystifier
  • #3
Jamister said:
I'm looking for a book on foundation of quantum mechanics. I started reading the book "do we really understand quantum mechanics" of franck laloë , and it seems to be very chatty and long. Do you have any recommendations?
Thank you
If the book is too long for you, there is a shorter version
http://de.arxiv.org/abs/quant-ph/0209123

The books on quantum foundations are usually chatty, for a reason. The point of quantum foundations is to understand not only what the equations are, but also what all those equations mean. If you don't like chatty, then perhaps by quantum foundations you mean something else. in that case I would suggest
https://www.amazon.com/dp/052187534X/?tag=pfamazon01-20
https://www.amazon.com/dp/9814578584/?tag=pfamazon01-20
 
Last edited:
  • #4
What the equations mean you can find in physics books, of which there are many which are not chatty (fortunately). If it comes to interpretation you have the entire gang of philosophers not far around the corner and then it gets chatty. Don't blame them. That's their job description!
 
  • Haha
  • Like
Likes Demystifier, George Jones, S.G. Janssens and 1 other person
  • #5
There also is the undergad book "Foundations of Quantum Mechanics" by Travis Norsen.
 
  • Like
Likes atyy and vanhees71
  • #6
George Jones said:
There also is the undergad book "Foundations of Quantum Mechanics" by Travis Norsen.
Yes, but it's much more chatty than Laloe.
 

1. What is the best book for understanding the foundations of quantum mechanics?

There are many books on the market that cover the foundations of quantum mechanics, but the best book will depend on your current level of understanding and your specific areas of interest. Some popular options include "Quantum Mechanics: The Theoretical Minimum" by Leonard Susskind and Art Friedman, "Quantum Physics: A Beginner's Guide" by Alastair I.M. Rae, and "Introduction to Quantum Mechanics" by David J. Griffiths.

2. What topics should I expect to be covered in a book on quantum foundations?

Most books on quantum foundations will cover the basics of quantum mechanics, such as wave-particle duality, uncertainty principle, and superposition. They may also cover more advanced topics such as quantum entanglement, quantum measurement, and quantum information theory.

3. Are there any prerequisites for reading a book on quantum foundations?

Some familiarity with calculus, linear algebra, and classical mechanics would be helpful in understanding the concepts presented in a book on quantum foundations. However, there are also books that are geared towards beginners and do not require any prior knowledge in physics or mathematics.

4. Can I learn about quantum foundations without a background in physics?

Yes, there are books on quantum foundations that are written for a general audience and do not require a background in physics. These books often use analogies and everyday examples to explain complex concepts in a more accessible way.

5. Are there any online resources that can supplement a book on quantum foundations?

Yes, there are many online resources available that can supplement your learning from a book on quantum foundations. These include lecture videos, online courses, and interactive simulations. Some popular options include MIT OpenCourseWare, Khan Academy, and the Quantum Mechanics Simulation project by the University of Colorado Boulder.

Suggested for: Best book for quantum foundations

Replies
15
Views
4K
Replies
1
Views
570
Replies
14
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
494
Replies
8
Views
874
Replies
15
Views
1K
Replies
5
Views
790
Replies
5
Views
918
Back
Top